Tell us a little bit about your background…
Surpassing at academics right from Delhi Public School, Meerut, India; my interest in psychology was heightened when I chose to study diverse therapies in my senior year at school. The concept of and reasons for human behaviour fascinated me more than other subjects, paving a way for my undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology at Delhi University, Delhi. Since then I have always dreamed of coining a niche in the field.
After rounds of interviews, I got an opportunity to pursue a summer internship at Resonate Psychological Services in 2017. Dealing with different cases of individuals and their behaviour, I learned a lot through this experience. It really was soul stirring in every sense.
I was chosen to organise an event as part of the Mental Health Foundation, AIIMS; it taught me an essential value, confidentiality. I then started developing new ideas of play therapy giving it a new way which led me to complete a diploma in Hypnotherapy from Indian Hypnosis Academy.
Aside from this, I have also pursued a 7 year bachelors degree in Bharatanatyam (classical dance form) which has enhanced my skills of expression and taught me how to bring out my emotions and ideas and present them in a way that people can relate.
For the past three years I have been working with an NGO – Arunodoy, dealing with the empowerment of tribal people, finding ways to conquer illiteracy, dealing up with general life issues and promoting health and education for the underprivileged in India. I led and trained interns from and around the globe; Australia, Egypt and Eastern Cape in 2015 in collaboration with AIESEC. Being an active member of the NGO Arunodoy, the work becomes worthwhile when I see those innocent faces brim with joy from even a small gesture.
What attracted you to the Clinical Health Psychology programme at Strathclyde?
My keen interest in psychology since high school kept me motivated throughout my journey, to pursue my studies in the field of psychology. A better understanding of self is the best thing you can get, and seeking to provide others with this same insight. So far I have found the Clinical Health Psychology programme quite interesting with a high quality of learning.
Had you considered furthering your studies at other universities?
Yes, I plan to continue my PhD studies at Glasgow University.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying your course?
I would definitely advise anyone considering to pursue this course. You learn a lot about theory and practice. The placements and assignments in this course allow you to enhance your knowledge and skills significantly.
What do you think of the support available throughout the course?
The teaching staff and international student support are the main forms of support that I have used throughout the course. You can get help from the faculty and student union very easily and quickly.
What have been the main challenges studying at postgraduate level?
Time management and finance are the most challenging ones. A balance between your studies and the rest of your life is quite difficult but is so very important to focus on.
What are your ambitions for the future?
An exceptional thing I have taken from Strathclyde University is that you need to be ambitious but you don’t need to know exactly what comes next. I will further pursue my studies by following up with a PhD or gaining some more experience first. However, I am building my skills with this degree and trusting my capabilities. My main ambition is to passionately pursue a career in psychology and to give to others what it has given to me. A better understanding of self.
